From Underdog to Superdog

 

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”  Romans 12:2

 

There is a program on television entitled, From Underdog to Superdog.  They take an underprivileged dog and as you watch you see a marvelous transformation in appearance, personality, and spirit in that underdog.

One night there was a Yorky who was on the street, dirty, unkempt, malnourished, and fearful of everything.  They brought him in, bathed and groomed him so that from the external he looked good.  He was then taken to the trainer who taught him obedience and built a relationship with the dog that helped him to learn to trust as he probably never had.

The dog received love from everyone who cared for him, probably for the first time in his life.  He also was given nourishing food and vitamins that transformed his body and coat.

            The program then picks an adoptive family suited to the needs and personality of the little dog.  In this case, he was given to a little girl who treated him like a baby.  He was given a soft, pretty bed and all the toys he could ever play with.  He definitely responded to the love he received.

            What a transformation both inside and out.  It made me think of the transformation of our prodigals.  Not only does the change need to take place externally, but more importantly, internally.  We are seeing this at our prodigal support group on Friday nights as God’s word does the transforming.

            As they have received God’s love and the acceptance of their fellow sojourners, they are being transformed.  This can only be God!  It is awesome to see them come into the circle defeated, at the end of themselves, and watch them rise up on the wings of genuine love, acceptance and accountability to each other.

            These men and women come in and learn to trust each other with their struggles and temptations without condemnation.  We are seeing the attendees respond to the love that is expressed to them as they come, just as they are.  In the church we often sing, “Come Just as You Are”---but do we mean it, or do we mean clean yourself up and then come!

 

Reflection:

1. Are you willing to show love and acceptance to the underdog God brings your way?
2. Will you give of your time to be part of the transformation of a prodigal?  Praying for them, showing love, and giving quality time.
3. Will you chose to accept your prodigal just as they are, not as you think they should be?

                                                                                          Sandra